13 Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Tub Ozone

1) What is ozone?

Ozone is a form of oxygen that is created when electrical energy breaks apart an ordinary oxygen molecule. This starts a chemical reaction that results in ozone.

The O2 molecules are split by a high-energy electrical discharge which results in two oxygen atoms that unite with remaining oxygen molecules to produce a molecule made up of three oxygen molecules: ozone. The relatively weak bond holding the third oxygen atom together with the other two causes the molecule to be unstable and an effective oxidizer.

Ozone is sometimes referred to as energetic oxygen and is a powerful tool in the oxidation of water contaminants. It has been made available for spas and hot tubs through the use of ozone generators called ozonators.

2) What is oxidation?

Oxidation occurs when an ozone molecule collides with an organic molecule (fungus, algae, bacteria, etc.).  The oxygen atom held by the weak bond then splits off leaving only oxygen behind.

It reduces your need to heavily dose your water with other sanitation chemicals, helps destroy bacteria, algae, yeast, etc., oxidizes other contaminants, reduces odor, helps prolong equipment life, all while purifying your water naturally.

Ozone helps to oxidize things like soap, deodorant, hair spray, cologne, makeup, perfume, body lotion, hand cream, sun tan lotion, saliva, and urine. Used along size your sanitizer, the oxidation process helps kill pathogenic bacteria, germs and viruses.

3) How does a hot tub ozonator work?

An ozonator system duplicates the natural oxidation process that exists in nature and produces ozone safely and in controlled amounts that aids a hot tub’s sanitizing system. When used in conjunction with a sanitizer like bromine, chlorine, or alternative sanitizers, ozone can reduce the amount of those need to maintain clean water. Ozone ultimately enhances the performance of those sanitizers.

An ozonator not only destroys microorganisms, it breaks down harmful chemicals and causes total dissolved solids to clump together for easier removal by the filter. The result is water which is cleaner and more enjoyable.

4) Will an ozonator save me money?

Yes! Because you can reduce your sanitizer usage, an ozonator will eventually make up its cost. In fact, you will use 60-90% less chlorine or bromine annually.

5) How does an ozonator work with my other equipment?

Quite well, actually! It can help to extend the life of your other hot tub equipment because it reduces maintenance time and costs, all while purifying your spa water naturally. Ozone reduces the need for regular shock treatments because ozone is an automatic, daily, non-chlorine shock.

6) How does an ozonator work with my hot tub sanitation system?

Ozone is 100% compatible with alternative purification systems like Cleanwater Blue, Nature2 mineral purifier, and the Spa Frog.

Ozone also helps prevent the calcium in spa water from chelating and thus conditions the water. This is for equipment and more enjoyable for you. Many people say that the water actually feels softer to their skin.

7) Will it replace my current sanitizer?

No. You will need to use a system like bromine, chlorine, Cleanwater Blue, or Nature 2. However you will find that you can use a lot less chemicals, (up to 25% less) and this will pay for your ozone system over time and make spa maintenance much more trouble free.

8) How long does my ozonator need to run?

Ozone is a strong oxidizer but does not last long in the water and needs to be continuously replenished the generator by running for about 1/4^th of the day.

In order to be effective at sanitizing the water, it should be running for 4-6 hours per day. You can program this to be 2-3 hours every 12 hours or just run it all at once.

9) Does my hot tub come with an ozonator in it already?

While your new hot tub may not have an ozonator already installed, 90% of new tubs are considered “ozonator ready” which makes it very easy to install. Some may come with one already so make sure you check with your dealer or owner’s manual.

10) How often do I need to replace my ozonator?

It is suggested you replace your ozonator every 2-3 years, earlier if you use your tub heavily, perhaps longer if your use is light. If you’re finding that it isn’t functioning properly, there’s a good chance it’s worn down and needs replacing. Just because you see bubbles doesn’t mean it’s functioning properly.

11) How do I pick an ozonator?

If you’re purchasing an ozone unit for the first time, there are a few things you’ll have to keep in mind:

• Spa size—The bigger the tub, the more powerful ozonator you’ll need.

• Sanitation level—If you have a tub that’s often used by large groups multiple times a week, pick one that has a more powerful sanitation output.

• Electrical requirements—You’ll need to establish what voltage cord you need to hook up your ozonator properly. Ozone units come with a variety of voltage options from 120 volt, 240 volt, or duel voltage.

12) Is it safe for me and the environment?

When dissolved in water, ozone is extremely safe. Excess ozone quickly converts back to oxygen. The amount of ozone produced by a hot tub ozone generator is insignificant to the normal atmosphere we live in.

13) Will ozone affect my spa water chemistry, like pH?

Ozone is pH neutral and will not adversely affect the pH of your hot tub water.